What is Sonohysterogram?
Sonohysterogram or Sonohysterography is a diagnostic technique that is used to look inside the uterus using sound waves. It involves the infusion of saline solution into the uterus and hence is also known as saline infusion sonography (SIS). This diagnostic procedure is often carried out when your gynaecologist is doubtful about some sort of abnormalcy in your uterus and normal ultrasonography has not given satisfactory information.
Sonohysterogram lets your doctor get a more detailed view of your uterus, endometrium, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
When you will be suggested Sonohyterogram?
A sonohysterogram will be suggested by your gynaecologist-obstetrician if there are symptoms such as abnormal uterine bleeding, repeated miscarriages, infertility, or any abnormalities detected in transvaginal ultrasonography or the details obtained through transvaginal ultrasonography are not clear.
A sonohysterogram is never suggested to a woman who is pregnant or could be pregnant. Ideally, a sonohysterography is conducted during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.
Who conducts Sonohysterogram?
A trained licensed technician or an experienced gynaecologist-obstetrician conducts sonohysterogram. The person conducting SHG will be sound in the knowledge of catheter insertion into the vagina, the procedure, and its side effects
How to prepare for Sonohysterogram?
Prefer to have this test done in the week just after your menstrual bleeding stops. It is the time when the most accurate results can be obtained with a reduced rate of pelvic infection.
Talk to your doctor about the procedure and potential risks you can have. Your doctor will suggest you a pregnancy test and also examine for any pre-existing pelvic infection.
Your doctor may prescribe some antibiotics and of-the-counter painkillers to avoid infection and discomfort after the procedure.
You may eat and drink normally on the day of the procedure but might have to empty your bladder before the process
Procedure
Before sonohysterogram, a transvaginal ultrasound is performed to examine the ovaries, uterus, and amount of pelvic free fluid. During sonohysterogram, the patient remains conscious and is laid on her back with her knees folded. The doctor inserts a speculum into the vagina at first that gives a proper view of the cervix. Then a sterile catheter is placed in the cervical canal and once it is placed properly, the speculum is removed. Following this, the transducer coated with a special gel/latex sheath is inserted into the vagina, and saline solution is injected into the uterine cavity through the catheter. Once the uterine cavity is filled with saline fluid, images of the uterus are taken. Once images are taken, the transducer and the catheter are removed.
You may feel slight discomfort or cramps during the procedure. Do inform your doctor regarding the same. Any unusual pain, lesion, or purulent discharge can recommend rescheduling the procedure.
What to expect after the procedure?
After the procedure, you can resume your daily activity immediately. You may need to wear an absorbent pad because the saline fluid will gradually drain out of the uterus for a few hours. You may feel slight pain or cramps and take some of-the-counter painkillers to alleviate the symptoms.
If changes in vaginal discharge or fever occur, immediately inform your doctor as these may be the symptom of some infection.
After the sonography, the reports are generated and sent to your gynaecologist who then studies them and suggests the next step.
Sonohysterography is suggested by doctors to diagnose multiple health conditions like uterine fibroid, polycystic ovarian syndrome, abnormal shape of the uterus, uterine cancer, etc. It is much preferred to another alternative test like hysteroscopy. It may be followed by other tests if your doctor finds the need for more details.
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Light bleeding and cramps are normal after sonohysterography. You can take off-the-counter painkillers to deal with the pain. However, if fever occurs with severe pain, you must contact your gynaecologist.
Sonohysterography yields the best results when conducted around the 10th day of the menstrual cycle, i.e. just before the ovulation period. So calculate accordingly and you are good to go.
Yes, Sonohysterography examines ovaries as well as blocked oviducts.
No, a hospital stay is not required for sonohysterography. It is approximately a 30-minute process after which you can resume your normal activity. A bit of discomfort, pain, and light bleeding is quite normal and can be dealt with off-the-counter medications.
There is no such food or drink restriction before sonohysterography. Even you do need not fast before the process as well.
